The Fireballs will face the Stings and the Crinums will face the Jaguars in the semifinals of the Telkom Netball League on Friday, while the Baobabs will compete in a relegation/promotional match on Sunday.
The Golden Fireballs booked their spot in the semifinals with 61-48 victory over the Stings, showcasing exceptional teamwork and strong defence.
Their impressive shooting circle and high possession further solidified their dominance, positioning them as favourites for the semifinals.
Coach Dr. Elsje Jordaan expressed satisfaction with player adaptability.
Jordaan said, “We tested combinations today and I’m pleased with our players’ adaptability. Confidence is key for us going into the semifinals. We’ll focus on recovery, risk management, and mental preparation over the next 24 hours.”
Stings’ coach Dr. Freda Kemp remained optimistic despite the loss. “We used today’s game to test new strategies, and I’m pleased with what I saw. We’ll focus on improving our first intercepts and managing injury concerns for tomorrow’s semifinal against the Fireballs,” said Dr. Kemp.
With the Fireballs undefeated this TNL, the upcoming match promises to be an exciting clash.
Defending champions Crinums decisively beat Baobabs 66-46, demonstrating their strategy.
The Crinums’ defence, led by Reratilwe Letsoalo, Sizeka Adoons, and captain Ane Retief, played a key role in the victory.
Baobabs started strong but lost momentum due to injuries to key players.
Despite giving bench players some time on the court, they couldn’t keep pace with the Crinums’ energy and accuracy.
Next, the Crinums will face the Jaguars in the semifinals, while the Baobabs will compete in a relegation/promotional match on Sunday after finishing at the bottom of Division 1 with only one win in 12 games.
In a commanding performance, the Jaguars defeated the Aloes with a score of 72-41.
Their precise execution was evident through a seamless transition game and impressive shooting in the circle.
Meanwhile, the defenders demonstrated their skills by effectively cutting off lines and intercepting plays.
Kamogelo Maseko was a standout player, and emotional moments arose as she made a return to court in Power Week 2 from injury.
With 10 intercepts, the Gauteng side’s defensive prowess was clear.
“We thought it was important to gain confidence and walk away with a good win,” said Coach Rozanne Matthyse. “I’m proud of every single player. We’re going into this knowing we’ve got a chance.”
Despite the Aloes displaying passion, the Jaguars’ superiority sent a strong message on their ambitions.
In another closely contested match, the Kingdom Stars narrowly defeated the Sunbirds with a score of 46-44.
Tshina Mdau was awarded Player of the Match for her outstanding performance.
Following the conclusion of Day 4, the semifinal matchups in Division 2 have been determined.
The Tornados, who finished at the top of the standings, will face the fourth-placed Sunbirds, while the second-placed Kingdom Stars will compete against the third- placed Tshukudu.
THURSDAY RESULTS
D2: Comets 33 – 67 Tshukudu
D2: Sonoblomo 41 – 52 Kingdom Queens
D1: Crinums 66 – 46 Baobabs
D1: Stings 48 – 61 Fireballs
D1: Jaguars 72 – 41 Aloes
D2: Kingdom Stars 46 – 44 Sunbirds
D2: Diamonds 54 – 32 Tornados
FRIDAY FIXTURES
10:00 – Play off D2 Pos. 7/8: Diamonds vs Lilies
12:00 – Semifinal (1) D2: Tornados vs Sunbirds
14:00 – Semifinal (2) D2: Kingdom Stars vs Tshukudu
16:00 – Semifinal (1) D1: Fireballs vs Stings
18:00 – Semifinal (2) D1: Crinums vs Jaguars
© Netball South Africa